societies with enough surplus to form divisions of labor and a social hierarchy involving significant inequalities.

what is a chief difference between civilizations and other societies?

emergence of formal politicl states (orgs) rather than dependence on family or tribal ties.

why are large cities crucial to civilizations?

they amass wealth and power, allow rapic exchange of ideas among large numbers of people.they promote specialization in manufacturing and trade.

what was the first human writing?

cuneiform in the middle east around 3500 bce.

why is ability to write important to civilizations?

1. organize more elaborate poolitical structures.
2.ability to sent messages and keep records
3. can tax more efficiently
4. generate a more explicit intellectual climate.
5. build on past written wisdom.

who and why does history of civilizations does not include?

nomads and hunters because they didn't have the stabulity and resources to generate a civilization.

what are some characteristics of civilizations?

firmer class or caste divisions(including slavery)
promote greater separating between rulers and ruled
frequently are quite warlike
greater inequality between men and women

why did nomadic people play vital roles in workd trade and developing contacts?